Menu

January 2019

Close up on Wooden Fence Door.Wood Fence - Wood Fencing

When to Install a Fence Arlington Heights

What is the Best Time of Year to Install a New Fence?

Looking out your kitchen window would be a different experience if you had a new fence to look at. You’ve been thinking about beautifying your backyard by adding or updating your current fence to a new one, but when are the conditions just right? You can’t imagine installing a fence in the cold weather, but believe it or not, fall and winter are the best times of year to install a new fence. Here’s why.

Avoid Springing into Action

Everyone does this in the spring and summer seasons; followed by spring cleaning with all the necessary housework and upgrades almost every homeowner talks about all winter long. For most projects, summer and spring are the peak seasons; then fall and winter are the perfect times to get the service done while having all the attention from us here at Durabilt! Research during the warmer months on what fence would best suit you and your needs, then prepare for the installation during the fall and winter.

 

Contractors are Prepared

Our team at Durabilt Fence are prepared to handle any condition, including chilly winter weather of Chicagoland. Experts like us have the tools and expertise to install your fence during the fall and winter so you can focus more on what’s important during those months. This also allows you to be certain that the cooler weather doesn’t affect the quality of the fencing.

Give your Fence Time to Season

Wood pickets are less likely to experience warping in the cooler months. The heat and strength of UV rays in the summer can dry the wood out too quickly, causing warping and splitting. Fall and winter give the wood time to “season,” allowing a slower, more even dry.

When to Install a Fence Arlington Heights

You May Save Some Money

Since all seasons outside of winter are busy for installers, they may have surplus materials, meaning you can potentially save on fencing materials by having a fence installed in the winter. Certain types of fences may even cost less, but the best thing is just to call us at Durabilt Fence to get a free estimate.

Shorten your Time Frame

By scheduling the work during the winter when crews are less busy, you won’t have to wait to get your project started. Plus, we are more likely to commit a larger crew to your project to get the work done faster. If you wait until spring to contact us, you likely will be on a waiting list and may not see your new fence until closer to summer, and the actual construction could take longer as crews are split between many ongoing projects.

Landscape Friendly

Having crews work during the fall and winter causes less damage to your plants in your landscaping. Your grass will have gone dormant and won’t be affected as dramatically by our equipment and workers. Also some of your perennials will be safely protected under the soil as our crews work above them.

When to Install a Fence Arlington Heights

If you are thinking about upgrading your fence or buying a new fence, contact Durabilt Fence today!

We will help you find the fence type to match your needs and the style of your home so it blends seamlessly. Contact us today!

Snow Covered White And Blue Picket Fence With Falling Snow Flake

Prepare for Winter Arlington Heights

How to Prepare Your Fence for the Upcoming Winter

We’ve officially reached the end of summer and begun fall, and that means it’s time for pumpkin spice lattes, cozy sweaters, and spooky decorations. It’s also time to begin preparing your yard for fall and winter weather. If you have a fence, it’s necessary to ensure that it will continue to survive throughout the changing seasons. Your fence made it through the heat and sunlight, but can it handle the colder temperatures and snow? Here are some tips for inspecting your fence before fall and winter and making sure it remains standing even after the heaviest snowfall.

Inspecting Your Fence for Signs of Damage

The first step to making sure your fence is ready for winter is to give it a quick inspection. How do the fence posts look? If you see any sign of sagging, you should do something about it. Don’t procrastinate when it comes to fence maintenance – you wouldn’t want your pet or your kids to get poked by a rusty nail that they didn’t see sticking out of your rundown fence, after all!

There’s a lot more risk of trouble with a wood fence than with a vinyl fence. If your wooden fence is showing signs of rot due to summer rainfall, this is something to address before the weather turns cold and dark. After all, winter is coming. Check that your fence posts are structurally sound and that none of your boards are loose or damaged. If your only problem is one missing or damaged board, you may be able to repair the fence. A rusty latch on your gate may also need replacement, which is a problem you might encounter with either wood or vinyl. However, if you see any signs of rot, this is a good reason to tear down that old fence and put up a new one.

Signs of Rot include:

Boards caving in

Posts are loose and wobbly

Gate sag and wont close

In addition to the moisture of snow, which can cause damage to wooden fences especially, you need to consider whether your fence can take the weight of snow. In a heavy snowfall, vinyl fences are usually sturdy because they do not rot in the first place and are less likely to warp. Aluminum fences also withstand snow well.

Protecting Your Fence from Moisture

Protecting a Wood Fence

If your wood fence isn’t showing signs of rot, then it’s likely to last another season. However, you should make sure that it has been waterproofed and will not be at risk for rot in the future. Vinyl fences are already waterproof. To check that your wood fence has been properly waterproofed, you can perform a “splash test” by splashing water onto the fence. If it beads up, you’re good to go. However, if the water gets absorbed and darkens the wood, you will need to apply a layer of sealant or waterproof stain. Make sure you’re using a high-quality brand; if you skimp on the coating, you may end up having to repair or repaint your fence, and the cost will be much greater in the long term.

Keeping Leaves and Snow Away From Your Fence

Raking leaves is one of the first chores that comes to mind when thinking of fall yard work. Make sure you have a place to rake leaves that is not against your fence. When it rains, leaves collect moisture, which can mean trouble for your fence, especially if it’s made of wood. Vinyl fences will not rot from water damage the way wood fences may. However, algae is still more likely to grow on a vinyl fence that gets wet, which is particularly noticeable if your fence is white or light-colored. Therefore, you don’t want to create piles of leaves right next to your fence, where over time they may also get wedged between fence boards.

As you know, if you don’t take care of your leaves now while the October weather is still mild, you’re regret it later. Snow piling up on your leaves will only make the moisture problem worse and put you at further risk for mold, mildew, and rot. The weight of snow can also cause the collapse of your fence over time. Therefore, it’s a good idea to shovel as much snow off your fence as you can.

Pressed on Vinyl

You might have a vinyl fence instead of a wooden one. If you do, then that’s perfectly fine. You’ll just have to care for it a different way. Clean off any mold, mildew, or algae you see growing on your vinyl fence. Also, be sure to shovel off as much snow as you can to help prevent from boards snapping under the weight.

Don’t Forget About Gates

The gates that are part of your fences will need attention too. One vital part of the gates that help open and close them are the hinges. Make sure you find the time to grease the hinges and keep them moving – you don\’t want to get stuck on the wrong side of your fence in a snowstorm just because the gates around your home won’t swing enough to let you through.

Taking these measures for preparation and maintenance will ensure that your fence will last for seasons and years to come and that you’ll get lots of enjoyment out of it. If you find yourself in need of a new fence, you’ll want to get this project out of the way before the weather turns. If you had a wood fence that you were unable to properly maintain, you may want to consider vinyl or aluminum next time, which requires less upkeep and may fit into your busy life better. Like it or not, we are in store for colder weather, but if your fence is in pristine condition, it will make a beautiful backdrop for snow and fallen leaves!

8 Things Arlington

, , ,

8 Things to Know Before Building a Fence

A fence can help improve the overall look and feel of your home while also providing added security for privacy. 

Know What You Want

Ask why you are installing a fence. Depending on the reason, it can determine what kind of fence that you get. There are many different options  that provide different functionalities.  If you need some simple curb appeal, you can put in a white wooden fence and dress it up with some flowers in the front.  

Add Some Change

Mixing different materials can give your fence some character or some added practicality. Use one material for the front and another connecting to the back. This can also help reduce cost and maintenance. Such as privacy fencing in the back and simple white lattice in the front to add contrast.  

Materials

Depending on your purpose and needs, you may not want to use certain materials. Consider the maintenance that these fences will take. Aluminum, iron, and steel will need to be brushed and sealed to take patina off. We offer a wide variety of materials for every commitment stage you need. 

Dress It Up

Once your fence is in place, customize it with decorative posts or finials. Depending on your style, you may want to paint it a color that either compliments your home or will make it pop. Also consider curb appeal, so try to plant some flowers in front for a welcoming facade.  

Climate

In cold northern climates that experience frost, concrete anchors are necessary for fence posts. Post should be secured 36 inches deep to avoid cracking in a cold snap. For warmer, damper climates, vinyl is your best material choice, as wood is susceptible to water damage and will require more upkeep. 

Entrances and Exits

For safety and convenience, plan at least two paths into a fenced area. Ensure that one of these is large enough to accommodate bulky outdoor equipment such as a lawn mower, large garbage cans, and the like. Stepping stones and pergolas can help indicate the locations of gates, as can finials or other decorative elements.

Hire Professionals

Fence installation is harder than it looks, but Durabilt Fence can make it fast and easy. Ask us to see examples of fences that will best fit your needs and yard. Call us now for a free assessment today!

Think of the Neighbors

Be open and up front with neighbors about your fencing plans, and try not to block their views unnecessarily. A party fence can be built and shared by two or more neighbors, but such agreements should be made in writing and only after the property boundaries have been professionally determined.

Call Us Today!